Quick disconnect coupling

Abstract

An improved circular knitting machine which provides for semiautomatic doffing of large diameter rolls of knit fabric. The doffing of the fabric can be accomplished by a woman operator without strain. The improved circular knitting machine provides a quick disconnect from the drive to take the tension of the machine to allow machine repair without extensive dismounting of the machine.

That which is claimed is: 
     
       1. A quick disconnectable drive connection for a rotating shaft comprising: a cylindrical member adapted to be connected to a shaft, a sprocket member telescoped over said cylindrical member, a plurality of openings in said sprocket member, a first collar member connected to said cylindrical member adjacent said sprocket member, a plurality of openings in said first collar member, a second collar member telescoped over said cylindrical member having a plurality of pins connected thereto and projecting outwardly therefrom towards said sprocket member and spring means operably associated with said second collar member to urge said second collar member towards said first collar member to project said pins through the openings in said first collar member and said sprocket member to cause said sprocket to be capable of rotation with said first collar member, said spring means including springs around the base of said pins and bearing against a plate fixed to said cylindrical member.